Poison in a Cup: Water Intoxication and the Risks of Hydration

August 7, 2023

Reports of people becoming ill as a result of water poisoning have increased and continue to capture our attention. Recently, a 35-year-old woman from Indiana died after drinking 64 ounces (about 2 litres) of water in just 20 minutes; three weeks ago, a boy from South Carolina became ill after drinking six bottles of water in an hour; and recent studies suggest that the late legendary martial artist and actor, Bruce Lee, died from drinking too much water.

So, how did water, which is a life-giving compound, become poisonous?

Water is essential for life, playing a crucial role in maintaining bodily functions and overall health. While staying hydrated is important, there exists a potential danger when it comes to excessive water consumption. Water intoxication, also known as water poisoning or hyperhydration, is a condition that arises when the body’s electrolyte balance is disrupted due to an overload of water intake.

How much water is required to avoid intoxication?

The human body requires water to function properly, aiding in processes such as digestion, temperature regulation, and waste elimination. However, the kidneys can only eliminate a certain amount of water per hour, approximately 0.8 to 1.0 liters. Drinking water at an excessive rate or in large quantities in a short period can upset the delicate balance of electrolytes, particularly sodium, in the blood, according to medical news today. While it is difficult to consume dangerously high amounts of water accidentally, instances of water intoxication have been reported, often linked to activities like intense training or sporting events.

Symptoms and effects

The symptoms of water intoxication can vary but may include confusion, disorientation, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to swelling in the brain, a condition known as cerebral edema, which can be life-threatening. As sodium levels drop due to excessive water consumption, fluids move into cells, causing them to swell. This swelling can increase pressure within the skull, resulting in headaches, double vision, and even difficulty breathing. Severe water intoxication , according to research can lead to more serious consequences such as seizures, brain damage, coma, and death.

Real-life cases and causes

Instances of water intoxication have been documented in various clinical settings. These include cases of individuals consuming excessive amounts of water in a short span of time, leading to severe hyponatremia (insufficient salt in the blood). The tragic death of a 28-year-old woman who participated in a water-drinking contest highlights the potential dangers of overhydration. Consuming large amounts of water in a short time frame caused her to experience vomiting, headaches, and ultimately death.

Endurance athletes, such as marathon runners, are also at risk of water intoxication if they consume too much water without adequately replacing lost electrolytes. Guidelines promoting excessive fluid replacement during endurance activities can contribute to dilutional hyponatremia. Even infants, due to their small body mass, can be susceptible to water intoxication if they consume excessive amounts of water relative to their sodium stores.

Water intake for babies

According to experts, babies should not be given water, especially if they are under six months old, due to several important reasons that revolve around their physiological development and well-being.

First of all, and especially during the six months of life, the babies’ tiny tummies and developing kidneys are not suited to handle water properly. A baby’s stomach can only retain about one to two teaspoons of liquid after birth, according to Healthline, and it increases gradually throughout the first several months. Providing water to such young infants can fill their limited stomach capacity with a substance that doesn’t provide the necessary nutrients for their growth and development. This can lead to nutrient loss and interfere with the intake of essential vitamins, minerals, fat, and calories that are crucial for their overall health and proper development.

There is a risk of water intoxication in babies. Water intoxication occurs when the kidneys receive more water than they can handle, leading to an excessive dilution of electrolytes in the bloodstream. While water intoxication is rare, it can be dangerous, especially for infants. Their immature kidneys may struggle to regulate the balance of fluids and electrolytes in their bodies, potentially leading to serious complications such as seizures, irritability, drowsiness, low body temperature, and swelling

It’s important to note that breast milk or formula provides both nutrition and hydration for infants under 6 months of age. These sources contain all the necessary nutrients, including fluids, to keep babies properly nourished and hydrated. Babies receive hydration primarily from breast milk or formula, and introducing water at this stage can potentially lead to a reduction in their intake of these essential liquids, putting their health at risk.

As babies grow and reach around six months of age, small amounts of water can be introduced alongside breast milk or formula, especially during mealtimes. However, it’s important to continue prioritizing breast milk or formula as the main sources of hydration until around 12 months of age. After 12 months, water becomes a more significant part of their diet, and it’s important to encourage them to drink water from a cup to prevent constipation and promote proper hydration. Remember to always consult with a health professional before introducing water or making any changes to an infant’s diet.

Prevention and awareness

Preventing water intoxication involves being mindful of fluid intake and ensuring a proper balance of electrolytes. Staying attuned to the body’s signals of satiety can help prevent excessive consumption. Athletes and individuals engaging in strenuous activities should also prioritize electrolyte replacement along with hydration to mitigate the risks associated with water intoxication.

Furthermore, water intoxication serves as a stark reminder that even something as essential as water can have detrimental effects when consumed excessively. While instances of water intoxication are rare, understanding the symptoms, causes, and preventive measures is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being. Moderation and a balanced approach to hydration are key to avoiding the potentially severe consequences of overhydration.

SOURCES:
https://philstarlife.com/news-and-views/696281-woman-dies-after-drinking-too-much-water
https://nypost.com/2023/07/11/south-carolina-boy-hospitalized-after-drinking-too-much-water/
https://www.businesstoday.in/lifestyle/health/story/bruce-lee-had-a-sudden-death-at-age-32-due-to-drinking-too-much-water-suggests-new-study-353804-2022-11-22
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318619
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1770067/
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/strange-but-true-drinking-too-much-water-can-kill/
https://www.healthline.com/health/baby/why-cant-babies-have-water
https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/what-you-need-to-know-water-infants
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/when-can-babies-drink-water
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-water-babies-idUSCOL16728820080521

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